KUALA LUMPUR: Former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak was formally charged yesterday with corruption linked to a multi-billion dollar financial scandal that contributed to his shock election defeat less than two months ago, reports AFP.

The first ex-premier in Malaysia to appear before a judge, Najib pleaded not guilty to three counts of criminal breach of trust and a separate charge that he abused his position to pocket 42 million ringgit ($10.4 million) Each charge could see him jailed for up to 20 years.

In court, the former leader appeared tired and hung his head often during proceedings.